Investigating the Science Behind Artificial Intelligence
The Illuminating AI series transforms cutting-edge research into accessible public conversations, showcasing the work of scientists at the Renaissance Computing Institute (RENCI), UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State University, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS) and Google AI for Nature.
This initiative examines the science underlying today’s AI headlines, guiding audiences through the technology that drives artificial intelligence while investigating its effects on the natural environment.
During Spring 2026, RENCI and NCMNS will co-produce three lunchtime learning sessions culminating in he April 16 Science Café: Illuminating AI Night. Sessions are all free and open to the public. Prior registration is required to join the live webinars.
February 24 from 12:00pm-1:00pm
How AI Catalyzes New Biodiversity Science with Dr. Alex Jensen, Lab Manager for the Biodiversity Research Lab at NCMNS
Join us in person in the SECU Daily Planet Theater or register to join the live webinar.
March 24 from 12:00pm-1:00pm
How AI Reveals Hidden Stories in Nature, a virtual panel discussion featuring:
- Angel Hsu, UNC Chapel Hill and the Data-Driven EnviroLab
- Roland Kays, NC State and the NC Museum of Natural Sciences
- Dan Morris, Google AI for Nature and Society
- Moderator, Becky Boyles, RENCI at UNC Chapel Hill
Register to join this live webinar. This program is online only.
April 16 from 6:00pm-8:00pm
Science Café: Illuminating AI Night
6:00pm-7:00pm: Meet local scientists and interact with themed exhibits to learn about their exciting research
7:00pm, Science Cafe: Illuminating Artificial Intelligence: Using AI to increase the value of Museum specimens
Our evening keynote pairs Dr. Chris Bizon, Director of Data Science and Analytics at RENCI and Dr. Lily Hughes, Research Curator of Ichthyology at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences and Research Assistant Professor at NC State University, highlighting how artificial intelligence illuminates our understanding of the Museum’s ichthyology collections.
The Illuminating AI series is a collaborative partnership between RENCI at UNC Chapel Hill and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.